Monday, March 23, 2009

CYBERPUNK!!!

Before we begin a) read the 'tips' on the right and b) read 2 NEW classmates' entries and comment upon them.

Read this description of Cyberpunk.

Definition of Cyberpunk"Cyberpunk" is a sub-genre of Science fiction. It deals with slightly futuristic settings where computers, cybernetics and technology have affected our society. Often these worlds are dark and damaged - sometimes called "Dystopias". The stereotypical cyberpunk novel is positively dripping with chromed artificial limbs, bizarre prostheses used to ill ends, futuristic slang and lingo, crazed artificial intelligences and genetic manipulation run amok. The concept is more subtle than that, however. The underlying aesthetic is often one of going beyond the flesh. Drugs are a prominent feature of many cyberpunk books as are powerful Corperations and government powers, "underground" subcultures, as well as a variety of vices and crimes.

The most famous Cyberpunk novel, Neuromancer by W. Gibson, has a character named Case that "jacks" into the Matrix not just for work, but for liberation from the "meat"--the ability to play unfettered in a purely mental arena, a "consensual hallucination." Similar ideas have been used in the Matrix movies. Bladerunner,Aeon Flux and Total Recall are other examples of cyberpunk influenced movies. There are computer games and Anime that involve this genre, as well. Ideas from this can also be found in our class novel, The Last Book in the Universe.

ii) Find a picture of someone you don't recognise (ie. not a movie star) that you like that fits the idea of 'cyberpunk' as discussed above!

iii) Copy the picture into your blog.

4) Write a character description about the 'person' you selected. Some considerations: What is their name? Physical traits/powers? Personality? What do they like to do? Do they have a job? Do they have friends? Enemies? What does their home look like? Hobbies? Favourite food? Music?

TIPS ETC

A) Please remember to stay class appropriate. If you see something on a classmate's blog that isn't, please let me know immediately!B) Read the comments people make on your blogs.C) If you missed any blogs (due to absence, etc.), be sure to make them up!D) What will Mr. F. see? Click yourself from the "followers" below and see what I and others see when viewing your blog.